Chocolate and hazelnut pastries

Chocolate and Hazelnut Pastries – A Quick and Delicious Recipe

Who doesn’t love the sweet and crunchy taste of a chocolate pastry? This chocolate and hazelnut pastry recipe is perfect for those moments when you want to treat yourself or impress guests with a simple yet special dessert. Whether it’s a gathering with friends or a family movie night, these pastries will bring smiles to everyone’s faces.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 pastries

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- 100 g of chocolate (I recommend Poiana milk chocolate for a creamy and delicious taste)
- 200 g of crushed hazelnuts
- Chocolate syrup (Nesquick or similar, for decoration)

Brief history of the recipe:
Pastries are a traditional dish used in various cultures around the world, each having its unique version. Their origin lies in the art of using dough to create savory or sweet fillings. Our recipe is inspired by this concept, combining puff pastry with chocolate and hazelnuts to create the perfect snack.

Details about the ingredients:
1. Puff pastry: It is the perfect base for any pastry, offering a crispy and airy texture. You can easily find Morărită puff pastry in stores, and choosing this will simplify your work.

2. Chocolate: Choose a quality chocolate, such as Poiana milk chocolate, for a rich flavor. You can also experiment with dark chocolate or various flavored chocolates, depending on your preferences.

3. Hazelnuts: They add a crunchy note and a distinctive taste. Hazelnuts are rich in protein and healthy fats, and combined with chocolate, they create a perfect duo.

4. Chocolate syrup: It adds an extra touch of sweetness and aesthetics. You can use store-bought chocolate syrup or make one at home using cocoa, sugar, and water.

Step by step:
1. Preheating the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. It is essential for it to be well heated before placing the pastries in to achieve even baking.

2. Preparing the dough: Take the puff pastry sheet out of the refrigerator and let it reach room temperature for a few minutes. Then, roll it out on a clean surface. Use a sharp knife to cut the dough into 12 equal rectangles.

3. Adding the filling: In the center of each rectangle, place a piece of chocolate. Make sure not to add too much chocolate, or it will spill during baking. Sprinkle crushed hazelnuts over the chocolate for an added texture and flavor.

4. Wrapping the pastries: Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, creating a firm package. Ensure that the edges are well pressed to prevent the chocolate from leaking. You can use a fork to seal the edges, giving a rustic look.

5. Baking: Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Put the tray in the preheated oven and let them bake for about 20 minutes, or until they turn golden and crispy. Add a little water to the tray to create steam if you want to achieve an even fluffier texture.

6. Serving: Once the pastries have cooled slightly, you can decorate them with chocolate syrup. This not only looks good but also adds an intense chocolate flavor.

Recipes and drinks to pair with:
These chocolate and hazelnut pastries pair perfectly with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a fragrant tea. Additionally, for a more complex dessert, you can serve them alongside vanilla ice cream or a mascarpone cream flavored with vanilla and lemon.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use a different type of chocolate? Absolutely! You can also try dark chocolate or white chocolate.

2. What other fillings can I use? Berries, cream cheese, or nuts are excellent alternatives.

3. How can I store the pastries? The pastries can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, but it’s best to enjoy them freshly baked.

Nutritional benefits:
These pastries contain ingredients rich in antioxidants (from the chocolate), protein, and healthy fats (from the hazelnuts), making them a good choice for a sweet and satisfying snack.

Helpful tips:
- If you want to add a flavorful touch, you can sprinkle a little cinnamon over the crushed hazelnuts.
- Make sure not to let the chocolate melt completely before placing the filling in the dough to avoid unnecessary mess.

Enjoy every step of preparing these chocolate and hazelnut pastries! Each bite is an explosion of flavor and texture, perfect for indulging your taste buds. Bon appétit!